LTFRB reviewing P15 jeepney fare petition

MANILA, Philippines — The petition filed by transport groups for a P15 minimum fare for public utility jeepneys is being reviewed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

The LTFRB has received the petition seeking an increase of P2 in the minimum fare for jeepneys.

The current jeepney fare is P13.

The request for a fare hike comes as jeepney drivers and operators grapple with rising fuel prices.

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III emphasized the board’s commitment to balancing the welfare of both transport operators and commuters.

“We understand the challenges faced by drivers and operators due to soaring fuel prices and the increased cost of living,” Guadiz said.

“While we remain committed to ensuring that their livelihood is sustainable, we must also carefully balance this with the welfare of commuters who are equally affected by the current economic conditions,” he added.

In reviewing the fare hike petition, Guadiz said the LTFRB would consider factors such as fuel price trends, inflation rates and the economic implications on commuters.

The board assured stakeholders that the decision-making process will be transparent and inclusive, with public hearings and consultations planned.

Transport groups said the P15 minimum fare is necessary to sustain their operations amid escalating costs.

While the LTFRB is studying the fare hike petition, the board reiterated its goal of ensuring fairness and sustainability in the transport sector.

Oil prices up

Meanwhile, transport group Manibela slammed the fuel price hike of almost P3 per liter implemented yesterday, reiterating calls for the suspension of oil excise taxes to provide relief to motorists.

In a statement sent to The STAR, Manibela national chairman Mar Valbuena said diesel price surged by nearly P3 per liter for the second time this year.

“The increase is another blow to drivers and operators who will bear the burden of high costs,” Valbuena said.

Oil companies implemented an increase of P2.70 per liter for diesel, P1.65 for gasoline and P2.50 for kerosene.

With these adjustments, the year-to-date net increase for gasoline, diesel and kerosene stands at P3.45, P5 and P4.30 per liter, respectively.

“After all the costs are deducted, drivers are left with nothing to support their families, adding to the burden of school fees and household expenses,” Valbuena said.

Manibela renewed its appeal to the government to suspend taxes on petroleum products or at least reduce the current tax rate to ease the financial strain on public transport drivers.

Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, the current excise tax rates are P10 per liter for gasoline, P6 for diesel and P5 for kerosene. — Brix Lelis